Concrete Driveways
Plain brushed concrete for drives that take vans and heavy loads.
Pattern Imprinted Concrete
Imprinted Concrete Driveways Sheffield
Striking imprinted concrete driveways with low maintenance and high visual impact in dozens of colours and designs.
- Rated 4.8 on Google
- 50+ five-star reviews
- £2m+ in projects delivered
- Fully insured
- Free quotes
- Dozens of designs Brick, tile and cobblestone patterns in many colours
- A striking sheen The hardener gives a finish that catches the eye
- 25–30 years When properly installed and resealed every 2–5 years
What Is It?
Patterned Concrete Sheffield
Imprinted concrete, which is sometimes called stamped concrete or patterned concrete, is another fast-growing driveway option and it’s easy to see why. It is a relatively low-maintenance driveway option with a wide variety of colours and patterns available.
The process of creating a pattern concrete driveway is relatively straightforward and follows the process of a standard concrete driveway to begin with, where concrete is poured over an aggregate sub-base. Colour is then applied, followed by a hardener – and before the concrete is allowed to set, the pattern is stamped in.
There is a large variety of pattern designs, but the most popular are those which project a more traditional driveway style, such as brickwork, tiles and textured stones such as cobblestones.
- Sub-base An aggregate sub-base goes down first.
- Pour The concrete is laid, typically in one go.
- Colour Colour goes on, then a hardener.
- Stamp The pattern is pressed in before it sets.
- Joints Contraction and expansion joints are added.
Typically concrete will be laid in one go, with contraction and expansion joints added afterwards to allow movement to occur with the elements without causing cracking. As the hardener creates a seal on the concrete, it is very impervious to water, and as a result thought must be given to the run-off of rainwater from the concrete, which may require additional drainage runs to be created. This will add to the overall cost.
Why Imprinted?
Patterned Concrete Driveway Sheffield
Without doubt the main reason people choose patterned concrete driveways is the instant kerb appeal it brings to a property. The hardener creates a sheen which is very striking to passers-by, and to a large degree the increasing popularity has been driven by one person in a neighbourhood choosing an imprinted concrete driveway, which sparks interest from other neighbours in this option when the time comes for a driveway upgrade.
With so many colour options and patterns to choose from, it also means that you can put your own stamp (excuse the pun) on your driveway and choose a look which works for your taste and property style, yet still gain the other benefits, such as low maintenance.
Choosing a paving style from tiles to cobble and incorporating additional circular or curved patterns are all options which can complement the natural flow and direction of your driveway.
Patterns and Colours
Patterned Imprinted Concrete Driveways
For more inspiration, we have more photos of completed imprinted concrete driveways and pathways in our gallery.
Costs
Imprinted Concrete Driveway Cost
Guide price
£100–£120
per m² as a start point for a small 40m² driveway, coming down the larger the area
As with all price range examples, factors impacting an individual project, such as ground slope, ground condition and access to the driveway for material delivery, affect individual quotes. However, in general terms, with ‘all things being equal’, a cost of around £100–£120 per m² would give a reasonable start point for a small 40m² patterned concrete driveway, with the cost coming down the larger the area, where economies of scale can come into effect.
These higher costs compared to concrete take into account the additional materials and processes involved with imprinted concrete to give that exceptional finished look. Also, when compared to resin alternatives or block paving, the need for additional drainage to deal with rainwater run-off will add to the overall costs.
However, whilst this is one of the most expensive driveway options, it still remains a smart investment, as the high kerb appeal, low maintenance and wow factor will definitely play a part in your property’s overall perceived value.
- Ground slope
- Ground condition
- Access for material delivery
- Drainage for rainwater run-off
Aftercare
Imprinted Concrete Driveway Maintenance
Other than the aesthetics, the low maintenance is the other key benefit of an imprinted concrete driveway and it is easy to clean by brushing or pressure washing. To maintain a smart finish and take preventative measures, an application of a solvent-based acrylic sealant every two to five years is good practice.
The only area where weeds have a chance to take root is where the expansion and contraction gaps are. However, if a good quality mastic or sealant is used, this should minimise weeds or seeds taking root – as long as you don’t allow debris to build up in the joints.
Visually, since silicone sealant fillers are available in many colours, it’s relatively easy to find a good colour match with your imprinted driveway to ensure you maintain a great visual display. Regularly sealing your imprinted driveway will ensure its longevity.
Other Surfaces
Compare Other Driveway Options
Resin Driveways
A smooth, permeable surface that needs no extra drainage.
Block Paving
A traditional, permeable alternative that’s easy to repair.
Driveway Sealing
Bring an existing imprinted drive back to its original sheen.
Where We Work
Pattern Imprinted Concrete in Sheffield
We lay pattern imprinted concrete driveways throughout Sheffield and South Yorkshire, including:
Free Quotes
Pattern Imprinted Concrete Near Me
If you are looking for pattern imprinted concrete in Sheffield, simply contact us any time of the day or night through our contact form, or call 0114 551 7111.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Pattern Imprinted Concrete Questions
What are the main benefits of pattern imprinted concrete?
Durability: pattern imprinted concrete is highly durable and can withstand heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions.
Aesthetically pleasing: pattern imprinted concrete can mimic the look of other paving types such as brick or stone. It has a wide range of colour and pattern options.
Slip-resistant: pattern imprinted concrete is slip-resistant, which makes it an excellent choice for walkways and patios.
Multifunctional: it is highly versatile, and suitable for patios, walkways and driveways.
Increases property value: pattern imprinted concrete adds aesthetic value, and it can raise the value of a property.
How permeable is an imprinted concrete driveway?
Pattern imprinted concrete is one of the least permeable driveway surfaces. Some water may be able to pass through the expansion gaps, but very little, which is why additional soakaways will be required in most cases.
How durable is imprinted concrete?
Pattern imprinted concrete is a highly durable material if installed and maintained appropriately. It is made from a high-strength concrete mix and reinforced with steel bars to increase its strength and durability.
However, extremes in temperature can cause pattern imprinted concrete to expand or contract. Drastic temperature shifts can also cause cracks to appear in the surface, which in turn can compromise its durability.
It is therefore extremely important to include expansion gaps when installing imprinted concrete. While this may provide a slight compromise on the aesthetics, it will be a major benefit in the long run.
How long should I expect my pattern imprinted concrete driveway to last?
If properly installed and maintained, i.e. regularly sealed every 2–5 years, you should be looking to get 25–30 years from your driveway.
